Get ready for 10 Things to do in and around Reno, Nevada. Thanks to the new route linking Salt Lake, UT to Reno, NV you can now experience all the fun, thrills, and excitement Reno has to offer. Looking for an exciting detour from school or work? Reno has several getaway experiences to offer.
Mt. Rose Ski Resort
If you’re itching to hit the slopes, but don’t want to make the trek to Lake Tahoe, consider heading to Mount Rose. Situated a little more than 20 miles southwest of downtown, Mount Rose is the closest ski area to Reno. And at 8,260 feet, it’s also Tahoe’s highest base resort, making for optimal ski conditions. According to recent visitors, this is a great ski area with varied terrain and friendly, knowledgeable staff.
- Suggested Duration: Half Day to Full Day
Steamboat Hot Springs
Nevada boasts the highest concentration of natural hot springs in the United States, many located within a short drive of Reno. Remote hot springs and hot spring resorts are popular options for those seeking a more adventurous spa experience. Just a short drive outside the downtown area Steamboat Hot Springs provides a truly spa-like experience. Complete with facial treatments, massage services, as well as other traditional hot spring services.
- Suggested Duration: 2 hours to Half Day
Casino at the Eldorado
Recent travelers still rate the Eldorado as one of the best places to gamble in Reno. It boasts 13 restaurants and bars — a point of major praise for visitors who appreciate not having to leave the casino to dine. The Eldorado Resort also features several on-site nightlife venues and hosts regular concerts.
- Suggested Duration: 2 hours to Half Day
Lake Tahoe
If you have the opportunity to take a car out of Reno and visit Lake Tahoe, you certainly won’t regret it. This crystal-clear lake is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places in the country. Best known as a skiing destination in the winter but is equally exciting in the summer.
- Suggested Duration: Full Day
Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts
Constructed in 1968, the Pioneer Center is an excellent example of mid-century Populuxe architecture. This Non-profit 1,500-seat performing arts venue in the heart of downtown Reno, presents Broadway, ballet, philharmonic, and more shows to be enjoyed with you and your loved ones.
- Suggested Duration: Show Run Time
Wilbur D. May Center
The Wilbur D. May Center is a year-round destination. It contains a museum, arboretum, and botanical garden – dedicated to preserving the legacy of Wilbur May, a Reno rancher, world traveler, and philanthropist. The museum contains a beautiful, permanent collection of rare and exotic artifacts and animals from around the world. The 20+ acre arboretum and botanical garden features beautiful plants, trees, and flowers, along with hidden groves, ponds, waterfalls, and a meditation labyrinth.
- Suggested Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Reno Arch & City Plaza
The iconic Reno Arch is a great place to take a picture. Not far from the arch is the City Plaza which is home to two former Burning Man pieces – BELIEVE and Space Whale. With Several restaurants nearby this is a great place to walk around before or after a meal.
- Suggested Duration: Half an hour to 1 hour
Reno’s Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is a place you can stroll free of cost any time of day. It’s a clean and pleasant reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the busier Reno area. Take your time and enjoy the downtown sights. You’ll find everything from up-and-coming establishments to a collection of galleries and restaurants. Recent visitors highly recommend this walk for those traveling with kids.
- Suggested Duration: 2 hours to Half Day
Nevada Museum of Art
The Nevada Museum of Art is the oldest established cultural center in the state. But you wouldn’t know that by looking at it. After its 2001 renovation, this building is a fantastic example of modern architecture inspired by the landscape. The four main permanent exhibits include Altered Landscape Photography, Art of the Greater West, Contemporary Art, and the Work Ethic. Their outside exhibits boast two outdoor sculpture gardens, a suspended atrium staircase, and stunning views of the Reno skyline. This smaller museum (spanning 60,000 square feet across four levels) is perfect for exposing kids to the arts at a young age.
- Suggested Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Animal Ark
If you’re planning a trip from the end of March to the beginning of November, consider visiting Animal Ark. Sitting on 38 acres and 25 miles north of Reno, this facility is not a zoo, but rather a safe haven for non-releasable wildlife. Visitors have the opportunity to watch the ark’s residents – which include several species of North American predators and some exotic species from other geographic areas – interact and play. Though it is a bit of a drive from Downtown Reno reviewers said it was worth the extra effort, especially if you’re traveling with young kids.
- Suggested Duration: 2 hours to Half Day
Book your trip to Reno today and enjoy all the amenities of riding the Salt Lake Express.